What This Document Is
This document comprises a detailed archive of class notes from ELENG 228A: High Speed Communications Networks at the University of California, Berkeley. Specifically, these notes cover a lecture focused on IEEE 802.16, commonly known as WiMAX – a wireless Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) technology. The notes represent a comprehensive overview of the topic as presented in Spring 2006, offering a historical and technical deep dive into this important communication standard. They are presented as scribed lecture notes, providing a unique perspective on the core concepts.
Why This Document Matters
These notes are invaluable for students currently enrolled in or revisiting courses on wireless communication, broadband networks, and related engineering disciplines. They are particularly useful for those seeking a foundational understanding of WiMAX technology, its evolution, and its place within the broader landscape of wireless standards. Individuals preparing for professional certifications or working in the telecommunications industry will also find this resource beneficial for reinforcing their knowledge of MAN technologies and their underlying principles.
Topics Covered
* Historical development and standardization phases of the 802.16 family of standards.
* Fundamental principles governing the physical layer of 802.16 systems.
* Detailed examination of Media Access Control (MAC) layer operations within the 802.16 framework.
* Comparison of WiMAX to other wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi and DOCSIS/HFC.
* Spectrum considerations and the impact of frequency ranges on performance.
* Line-of-Sight (LOS) versus Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) applications and their respective implementations.
What This Document Provides
* A curated collection of references to key IEEE standards and technical publications related to WiMAX.
* An overview of the role of the WiMAX consortium and its objectives.
* Contextualization of WiMAX within the broader telecommunications industry and its potential applications.
* A structured presentation of lecture material, facilitating focused study and review.
* Insights into the early adoption and integration of WiMAX technology by network operators.
